KUALA LUMPUR – 18 Indonesian police officers have been detained for their suspected involvement in an extortion case targeting Malaysian citizens during the Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP) festival last weekend.
Indonesian National Police spokesperson Wisnu Andiko confirmed the detentions in a statement yesterday. The 18 officers are from the Jakarta Metro Police, the Central Jakarta Sector Police, and the Kemayoran Sector Police.
The Professional and Internal Security Division (Propam) is continuing its investigation into the officers.
“We assure the public that there is no room for individuals who tarnish the institution’s reputation. The investigation will be conducted professionally, transparently, and thoroughly,” Andiko said.
According to the claims, the Malaysian nationals were forced to undergo urine tests, show their passports, and pressured to pay. despite their drug test results being negative.
The allegations sparked widespread outrage online, with viral posts accusing Indonesian police of extorting attendees at the event. One post from the X account @Twt_Rave claimed that over 400 Malaysian festival-goers were targeted, with the total extorted amount reaching RM9 million.
Meanwhile, the DWP organisers, in a statement, expressed regret over the difficulties, acknowledging that while some issues were beyond their control, they understood the significant impact it caused.
DWP also assured the public that they are working closely with relevant authorities and government bodies to ensure a thorough investigation.
The incident also caught the attention of Habiburokhman, the head of the House of Representatives (DPR) Commission III, who expressed confidence that Propam would handle the alleged extortion case fairly.
“If extortion did occur, those involved should be punished,” he said.
The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has also called for swift and decisive action against the officers involved, advocating for ethical hearings and criminal penalties should a crime be confirmed.
“If it’s a criminal matter, they should be prosecuted. We support Propam’s investigation,” stated Commissioner Muhammad Choirul Anam, according to the Kumparan news portal.
The DWP, Indonesia’s largest electronic music festival, took place from December 13 to 15 at JIExpo Kemayoran, drawing 10,000 attendees from 52 countries, according to event organisers Ismaya Group. – December 22, 2024